Should I get a laptop or tablet? In the digital marketplace nowadays, there are a TON of options when it comes to hardware for your computing needs. Phones are becoming more and more able to handle our day-to-day needs, making the decision between a laptop and a tablet more difficult.

Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal needs, and what you will be using your new device for.

In general, laptops offer much more flexibility because they have increased storage, computing power and ability to run software that you may need for business. On the other hand, tablets are extremely mobile and lightweight, making them perfect for people who need to run their business while on the go or not be locked into a single location while performing tasks.

If you will be typing a lot, for example sending emails frequently, a laptop is the way to go. Tablets often require you to type on a digital touch keypad, which is much slower and uncomfortable than a full size keyboard you will find on a laptop. While many modern tablets are catching up in this regard by offering keyboard extensions, they still aren’t quite as easy to type on.

That said tablets are great for are reading, music, and web browsing. Because these tasks don’t require much processing power and are often very handy while you are out and about, tablets take the cake over laptops here. Since they are much more portable, it’s great to be able to pull out your tablet in the airport or a coffee shop to do some quick shopping online or reading.

One other advantage to tablets is the ability to not be tethered to a power source. Hardware components in tablets require much less power than laptops, and more often than not provide about 10 hours of constant use before requiring a charge – whereas laptops may only get 3-4 hours. Some tablets can even last longer than the newest iPhones, Galaxy S7, and Pixel.

You should think about getting a tablet if:

Your primary use will be internet surfing or shopping

You won’t be typing much – for example in forums or using email – although this can be less cumbersome with an external keyboard

You will be on the go a lot

You should think about getting a laptop if:

You have complicated software requirements – for example Photoshop or AutoCAD

You will be typing a lot – for example sending emails frequently

You need a lot of storage capacity

While tablets are becoming more and more popular as they gain functionality and have better keyboards and connectivity, laptops will offer more overall flexibility – albeit less mobile and more bulky than a tablet.